PERMITTING & CONSTRUCTION
Want to know more about the process to receive a permit for construction?
We understand that not everyone enters into a project knowing all of the steps to get from concept design through to construction completion. With this in mind, we have compiled information with the intent to provide a valuable resource to potential as well as current clients who want to gain a better understanding of some of the basic elements related to applying for and receiving a permit.
Overview of the City of Chicago Permitting Process - This document is a great reference for anyone interested in the complete permitting process. Check out the second page in the document to understand what type of projects require a permit and those that do not.
Questions to Ask Potential General Contractors
Sometimes an owner may secure a General Contractor (GC) prior to contacting an Architect. Although we believe it is better to engage an Architect first so that you have a written and graphic representation of the required scope of work for your project (Drawings & Specifications) which provides actual information for a GC to base their bid on, this does not always happen. Below are some important questions to ask a potential GC prior to procuring their services.
Are you licensed & bonded in the jurisdiction of my project?
Can you provide any references for similar projects?
What is your current workload?
What is the typical crew size you would provide for a project of this scale?
Who is your electrical contractor? Is he or she licensed?
Who is your HVAC contractor? Is he or she licensed?
Who is your Plumbing contractor? Is he or she licensed?
Some of these questions may seem obvious, but it is better to ask up front and not be surprised later. Again, working with an Architect can help alleviate some of the issues we heard about in the past since we can engage GC’s on a Client’s behalf to determine their capabilities and legitimacy. If you are currently talking to a GC about your Chicago-based project, you can check to see if 1) a Contractor is actually licensed by searching for their name on the Licensed General Contractors Page and 2) if listed, see their bonding capacity which is basically the indicator of the size of the project they can legally work on based on the anticipated dollar amount.
Other Useful Links
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request
Trade Licensing in Chicago - List of Licensed Trades (HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical)
When is a Permit is NOT required